Wes Horton

Grade

Draft Analysis:

6'5" Height

255LBS. Weight

Overview

Wes’ father, Myke, played offensive tackle at UCLA and was drafted by the New England Patriots in 1975 before suiting up for the USFL franchises in Washington and Memphis, as well as the CFL’s Calgary Stampeders. But those of a certain age might remember Myke best as "Gemini," one of the original members of the television show "American Gladiators" –- one of the precursors to the reality TV craze.

Wes was an All-American at Sherman Oaks’ Notre Dame High School before going to USC. As a redshirt freshman, he started the season’s first nine contests and played in all 13 games, making 23 tackles, 1.5 for loss and one sack. Horton was off to a hot start in 2010 before a back bruise cost him three games; he had three of his season total of four sacks in the opening month of the year (he finished with six starts, 10 games played, 29 tackles, 5.5 for loss). He then shared starting duties on the left side of the line with fellow junior Devon Kennard in 2011, beginning seven games and playing in all 12 (22 tackles, 4.5 for loss, four sacks). As a senior, Horton totaled 43 tackles (6.5 for loss) and 5.5 sacks. He was listed as an All-Pac 12 Honorable Mention.

Analysis

Strengths

Height and length are NFL-quality. Long strides allow him to eat up grass in a hurry when in pass rush mode. Active in pursuit, hard-worker. Flashes quick hands. Turns the corner and closes on the quarterback if his initial pass rush move works, and will get his long arms into passing lanes whenever possible. When uncovered, has the quickness to make offensive lines pay for leaving him be on inside runs.

Weaknesses

Quickness off the snap is inconsistent, can be the last one moving at times. His tall, somewhat lean build allows him to be moved by tackles and tight ends too easily in the run game. Has some movement skills as a stand-up rusher, but plays high and often off-balance, bends at the waist to make tackles, and his short-area quickness to contain on the edge is only adequate.

NFL Comparison

Austen Lane

Bottom Line

The son of a former NFL and USFL offensive tackle (and original member of the “American Gladiators” television show) has played since his freshman year, but has never been a tremendously impactful performer. He's got the height and length, works hard, and can turn the corner. However, he's an uncoordinated player who will often find himself off balance, or lunging. Doesn't project as a a great pass rusher or run defender, will likely need to contribute on special teams.

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Grade

Title

Draft (Round)

Description

96-100

Future Hall of Famer

Top Pick

A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played

85-95

Immediate Starter

1st

An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter).

70-84

Eventual Starter

2nd-3rd

A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position.

50-69

Draftable Player

4th-7th

A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential.

20-49

Free Agent

UDFA

A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body.